Centenary of the Founding of Grytviken - 2004 Unc. Cupro Nickel Coin

Coin Highlights

Description

The Government of South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands has approved the release of this fine coin to commemorate the Centenary of the founding of Grytviken, capital of the territory.

Grytviken, (commonly known as Pot Harbour) the oldest of the whaling stations was founded by Captain Carl Anton Larson on 16 November in 1904. On arrival in the bay (or viken), the whalers found some old tri-pots (gryte) that had been left by earlier sealers who had streamed to the island to hunt for seals soon after Captain James Cook discovered the island in 1755.

The coin itself depicts the vessel ‘Louise’ which was purchased to transport the factory buildings and accommodation to South Georgia from Sandefjord in the foreground and a general view of Grytviken behind with the Whalers Church, consecrated on Christmas day 1913 very much in evidence. Close to the church is the cemetery, which holds the body of Sir Ernest Shackleton. A cameo of Captain Carl Anton Larson is pictured below the wording “Centenary of Grytviken 1904 - 2004” in the surround. The obverse of the coin features an effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank- Broadley FRBS FSNAD.